An-Naṣr (النصر)
Definition
An-Naṣr (النصر) translates to “Help” or “Victory” in English. It is a highly significant term in Islamic theology and is also the title of the 110th Sūrah of the Qur’ān. This Sūrah is a Meccan Surah and is comprised of three verses.
Etymology
The term An-Naṣr (النصر) is derived from the Arabic root word ن-ص-ر (n-ṣ-r), which means “to help” or “to support.” The root and its derivatives are frequently used throughout the Qur’ān to signify divine support, victory, or assistance. In Turkish, it is translated to Zafer which also means “victory.”
Qur’anic Reference
The significance of this term is emphasized in the Qur’ānic context, as it appears in the first verse of Sūrah An-Naṣr:
<p>“When the victory of Allah has come and the conquest,” (Qur’ān 110:1)</p>
This verse signifies the divine help and victory granted by Allah to the Prophet Muhammad and the Muslim community during their numerous struggles, culminating in the conquest of Mecca.
Significance in Islam
An-Naṣr holds deep implications in the broader Islamic narrative:
- Divine Support: It represents the ultimate assurance of divine support for the righteous and steadfast believers.
- Fulfillment of Prophecy: The Sūrah indicates the fulfillment of Allah’s promise to support His Prophet and the early Muslim community.
- Transition: Historically, the revelation of this Sūrah marked the approaching completion of the Prophet Muhammad’s mission on earth and the near-perfect establishment of Islam.
Further Studies
For a more in-depth understanding of An-Naṣr and its place within the Islamic tradition, consider reading the following books:
- “The Study Quran: A New Translation and Commentary” edited by Seyyed Hossein Nasr
- “Tafsir al-Jalalayn” by Jalal ad-Din al-Mahalli and Jalal ad-Din as-Suyuti
- “Tafsir Ibn Kathir” by Ibn Kathir
Conclusion and Takeaways
- An-Naṣr signifies divine help and victory and is an essential aspect of Islamic doctrine.
- Its occurrence in Sūrah An-Naṣr highlights the divine promise fulfilled towards the end of the Prophet Muhammad’s mission.
- The Sūrah and the term underscore the broader context of divine assistance and eventual triumphant completion of Islamic goals.
By understanding An-Naṣr, one gains insight into the principles of divine support and victory, essential elements in the Islamic belief system.
